The Powerball jackpot increased to what will be the biggest payout in game history after none of the tickets purchased matched all six numbers in Saturday night's drawing.
The jackpot for Wednesday night's drawing is an estimated $425 million.
For the winner, that will be $278 million in cash.
"I have my fingers crossed that on Wednesday night a South Carolinian will be holding a ticket that's worth $425 million," said the Lottery's Executive Director Paula Harper Bethea. "Jackpot runs are always exciting, but this one has been incredibly energizing for our Powerball® players hungry for another astounding jackpot run like we saw Mega Millions® post earlier this year."
In March, a $656 million Mega Millions jackpot shattered the U.S. record. This Powerball jackpot roll that started October 6 is expected to grow even larger before Wednesday night's drawing as ticket sales boom nationally.
Powerball sales are brisk all across South Carolina and in the 41 other states along with the District of Columbia and the U.S. Virgin Islands that offer the Powerball game.
"While it's nice to think about what this large prize will afford the winner, it's important to maintain a sense of perspective. The odds of winning this money are long, about 1 in 176 million," said Bethea. "We encourage everyone to please, above all else, play responsibly. If you have an extra $2 to buy a ticket, that's wonderful. If you don't, then let it go."
You can purchase Powerball tickets until 9:59 p.m. on Wednesday for the 10:59 p.m. drawing.
Powerball tickets are $2 a piece and are available at lottery retailers statewide.
